What is a pneumatic actuator typically used for in robotics?

A pneumatic actuator is specifically designed to produce motion in robotic systems by utilizing compressed air. It operates based on the principles of pneumatics, where air pressure is harnessed to create mechanical movement. This allows for smooth and controlled actuation of robotic components, facilitating tasks such as lifting, pushing, and gripping.

Pneumatic actuators are particularly favored in applications where rapid movement and high force are required, as they can generate significant power while maintaining lightweight designs. The use of air also enables quick response times and adjustable speeds, making them ideal for dynamic environments encountered in many robotic applications.

Other options do not align with the primary functions of a pneumatic actuator. For example, powering electric circuits is typically the role of electric actuators or batteries, while storing energy is more relevant to mechanisms like springs or batteries rather than pneumatic components. Similarly, ensuring stability is typically the job of structural elements or control algorithms, not specifically the function of a pneumatic actuator. Thus, producing motion through compressed air is the defining characteristic of pneumatic actuators in robotics.